About Us

About Us

The Free Market Road Show 2016

The Austrian Economics Center (AEC), in cooperation with over 100 leading think-tanks and universities across Europe and the Caucasus, and in association with international partners such as the Liberty Fund, Global Philanthropic Trust, European Students for Liberty, Ruefa and the F.A. v. Hayek Institut, are proud to present the 8th Annual Free Market Road Show, which tours from March 7th to May 27 through 45 capitals in Europe and Caucasus ai??i?? from Scandinavia to Turkey, from Spain to the Ukraine.

The 2016 Free Market Road Show will bring together leading business people, outstanding scholars and students, opinion leaders, policy experts, elected officials, diplomats and other interested parties from across Europe to discuss the current Euro-zone crisis, explore what kind of Europe people want, examine the ai???conundrumai??i?? in which the European Union finds itself in and discuss ways to turn the current crisis into an opportunity. In the Balkan countries we will additionally focus on corruption and how to best fight it, whereas in the Caucasus regions we will cover the current regional tensions, focus on how economic freedom, the rule of law and protection of property rights provides options for improvements.

Started in 2008, the Free Market Road Show brings together renowned economists, leading politicians and prominent business leaders every year to discuss current economic problems and possible solutions at a variety of venues across Europe and the Caucuses. It also provides unparalleled networking opportunities for participants and those within the European free market movement, with exclusive events such as cocktail receptions and dinners with top opinion leaders and decision makers.

Since initiation of the Free Market Road Show hundreds of speakers from around the world have been involved, who reached thousands of participants. In 2015, the Free Market Road ShowAi?? exceeded all previous attendance records. Next year, it promises to be even bigger and better ai??i?? with many new cities, more speakers and a growing list of participants.

My special thanks go to our sponsors and partners. Without their active support, our teamai??i??s endeavors would be without success.

It is now a bit more than a year since the Junker-Commission started its work, and a lot has been done since to move the European single market forward. At the same time, it cannot be ignored, that Europe is confronted today with numerous serious political challenges at its borders, which put its economic activity at risk. In this regard, I am glad that the Free Market Road Show 2016 reminds us of the pacifying impact of Free Market.

Free market means enhancing economic governance, strengthening fiscal stability and supporting structural reforms for improved competitiveness, inclusive growth and social development, which are keys to boost a country’s economy. Working on improving free market economy is the best remedy to stimulate economic growth, give young people in and outside Europe the perspective of employment and thus contribute to stability which is our core goal in the European neighbourhood. Moreover, free market has an impact which goes beyond purely economic considerations. It is closely linked to the necessity of improvements in the domain of good political governance and democracy as well as in the fight of corruption and transparency.

The Free Marked Roadshow, moving through 35 capitals in Europe and the Caucasus offers a relevant forum to spread and discuss the numerous advantages and possible improvements linked to the European Internal Market.